Monday, September 30, 2013

Military officials at Fairchild Air Force Base announced this afternoon they have started preparing for the potential government shutdown, warning of furloughs and training interruptions across non-essential operations.

Col. Brian Newberry, 92 Air Refueling Wind commander, says in a news release the base would continue its mission as well as emergency and security services regardless of any government shutdown.

"That said, if government shutdown does occur," he says, "there will be impacts to us, some incredibly significant."

Officials report the base received guidance from the Department of Defense earlier today to prepare for the shutdown. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel also issued a statement on the potential shutdown.

Active-duty military personnel, emergency responders and other essential personnel will report for work as normal. Non-essential, or "non-excepted," civilian employees will face "emergency, no-notice, non-pay furloughs" throughout any government shutdown.

Officials noted training, travel and civilian operations would likely be disrupted. Non-essential personnel would only receive back pay if later approved by Congress.

"I do remain hopeful political compromise will be reached," Newberry says.